Illegal Contact (Book One)

by Vonda Howard

She's his trainer. He's off-limits. Neither of them cares.

Taylor Washington has worked too hard to let anything-or anyone-derail her career. As an athletic trainer for the Dallas Lonestar Outlaws, she knows the stay professional, stay focused, and never, ever fall for a player.

Xavier Jaxon doesn't follow rules.

The All-Pro defensive end is used to getting what he wants on and off the field. But Taylor isn't interested in being another jersey chaser-and that only makes him want her more.

One late night. One moment of weakness. One kiss that changes everything.

Now they're hiding a secret that could destroy them both. Because in the UGL, there's no penalty for falling in love-but there's also no protection when the truth comes out.

And the truth always comes out.

Illegal Contact is a steamy sports romance featuring a headstrong heroine, a swoony hero who falls first, and a love story that proves some rules are meant to be broken.

436 pages, Paperback

Published March 4, 2026

About the author

Vonda Howard is a native Washingtonian and lives with her family in Northern Alabama. She has two young adult children and a cute little yorkie named Popcorn. She loves crochet, smutty books, Chipotle and all things pink.

Reviews

[Coletta Peterson]

I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this and wheeew, this is a strong start to a new series.

From the very first chapters, the story pulled me in with its emotional honesty and grounded, real-life energy. The character development is what truly stood out for me. Nothing felt forced or over-the-top dramatic just for effect. The characters move, think and react in wats that feel authentic, messy and human, making it easy to become invested in their journeys.

What I really appreciated is how this book sets the tone for what's to come without overwhelming you. Little hints that give just enough depth and tension to make you seek out the next book in the series.

If you enjoy romance that feels real, layered and grounded, definitely add this to your TBR. I'm excited to see where this series goes next.

[Amanda (The Literary Hoarders)]

The book had errors throughout like a conversation was had and then the next moment another conversation happens with the information we were already told. Also, a whole chapter is repeated.
But as far as story, it was cutesy but the FMC & MMC truly irritated me.
FMC is saying one thing but completely doing the opposite and the MMC keeps playing in the FMC face.